Around three dozen U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) staff recently visited a working research farm in Queenstown, Maryland to see first-hand demonstrations of the latest sprayers and pieces of equipment. Organized by the Association of Equipment Manufacturers (AEM) and the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA), the goal of the event was to demonstrate the voluntary steps and emerging technologies that the equipment manufacturing industry has developed to reduce spray drift both for the benefit of growers but also to reduce environmental impact.

Several major manufacturers participated in the event and showcased their equipment including John Deere, AGCO, Case IH, GVM and TeeJet.

The EPA drafts the rules governing manufacturers and spray drift and many of those responsible were onsite for the demonstrations. AEM is reporting that the event was not only unique, but very successful in showcasing spray drift reduction technology – multiple EPA employees commented to AEM team members about how useful the event was in learning about the steps the industry has already taken to address the issue.

“This demonstration offered AEM members a terrific opportunity to demonstrate the many steps manufacturers voluntarily take to reduce spray drift, both for the sake of their customers and the environment,” said Nick Tindall, AEM senior director for government and industry relations. “We believe this demo day will help AEM members establish a foundation for a better working relationship with the EPA on matters of importance for equipment manufacturers.”